My son cracked 2 of his teeth 2 weeks ago in an accident. The right front tooth is cracked and so is the one immediately behind it. I took him to a pediatric dentist who said that my son needs a root canal. She is referring him to an endodontist to get it done. Is this really necessary? Does an 11 yr old child need a root canal treatment? – Lanai
Lanai – Your son’s central incisor and lateral incisor teeth were affected by the accident. If root canal treatment is being recommended, x-rays show that the fracture affected the pulp of the teeth. This can cause the teeth to slowly die and to become infected. It is common for traumatized teeth to require root canal treatment.
A root canal treatment will prevent infection. Dental crowns are placed over damaged teeth to protect them for further damage and to help preserve them. If you are skeptical about the recommendation, you can seek a second opinion. A vital pulp test, which the first endodontist may have already taken, will determine the status of tooth nerves.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.